Governor Uba Sani has granted clemency to 27 inmates in correctional facilities across Kaduna state, to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary, in an effort to give deserving innates opportunity to rebuild their lives
A statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki on Friday, stated that the latest clemency brings the number of beneficiaries to more than 500, since the Governor assumed office
The Commissioner added the intervention included the release of eligible inmates as well as the payment of fines and compensation of over N300 million for victims since 2023
The statement quoted state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Sir James Kanyip, as saying that the latest exercise is part of the Governor’s practice of extending mercy to deserving inmates on national occasions
According to the Chief Law Officer of Kaduna State, previous exercises were carried out on New Year day, during Democracy Day and Independence Day celebrations
He said the prerogative of mercy was exercised through established processes, taking into consideration accountability, rehabilitation and the responsibilities that come with freedom
Kanyip said the beneficiaries were expected to return to society with a renewed sense of responsibility and appreciation of their obligations to others
The statement said the payment of fines and compensation is also intended to give the clemency a restorative justice dimension by addressing barriers to the release of deserving inmates while recognising the interests of victims
It said the interventions were based on the belief that public safety, human dignity, rehabilitation and the possibility of redemption should form part of the administration of justice
The statement added that clemency goes beyond freeing inmates from custody, as it also provides an opportunity for beneficiaries to reconnect with their families and communities
The statement further said the administration would continue to support rehabilitation, reconciliation and the reintegration of deserving inmates into society
According to the statement, the government remains committed to a justice system that protects society, respects victims’ interests and gives deserving individuals an opportunity to become responsible and productive members of their communities